Avanade appoints Carla Ramchand as Australia Managing Director

Avanade has announced the appointment of Carla Ramchand as its new Managing Director for Australia, effective from 1 September 2024. Ramchand, who is based in Sydney, will be tasked with driving the growth of Avanade's business in the Australian market, maintaining the company's leadership within the Microsoft ecosystem, and leading teams across multiple cities including Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney.

Ramchand's journey with Avanade began in 2015 when she joined as Australia's Chief Operating Officer (COO). Over the years, she has held several key positions within the company, such as Growth Markets Modern Workplace Lead, Growth Markets COO, and most recently, Growth Markets Technology Business Group Lead. Her prior experience includes notable roles in the technology and telecommunications sectors, where she served as Executive General Manager for Cybersecurity at IBM and held various leadership positions within Telstra's Enterprise and Government business.

Bhavya Kapoor, President of Asia Pacific at Avanade, expressed enthusiasm about Ramchand's new role. "We are excited to have Carla lead our Australian business at this pivotal moment for the industry and Avanade as we embrace an AI-led future. Carla has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, a true passion for technology, innovation and people, and commitment to Avanade's values," Kapoor said. "Carla's people-first, client-focused leadership will play a vital role as we power Avanade's next phase of growth in the region."

Ramchand also shared her thoughts on the appointment, describing it as an exciting time to take on the new leadership role. "This is an incredible opportunity, and I couldn't be more thrilled to lead our Australian business, which is one of Avanade's largest and most strategic markets globally. It is an exciting time to be stepping into this role as AI becomes more pervasive and develops at a rapid pace – creating significant economic opportunity for Australia. Together with the Avanade team, I look forward to doing what matters for the businesses and communities in Australia through the power of our people and Microsoft technology," she commented.

In addition to her professional achievements, Ramchand is a notable advocate for initiatives that attract, retain, and cultivate diverse talent in STEM-related industries. Her commitment to diversity and inclusion is expected to be an integral part of her leadership approach at Avanade's Australian operations.

As she steps into the Managing Director position, Ramchand will look to leverage her extensive experience in both the technological and managerial spheres to steer Avanade Australia through the evolving landscape of AI and other advanced technologies. Her appointment comes at a time when the sector is rapidly evolving, presenting new opportunities and challenges that will demand innovative and dynamic leadership.